Cultural Dos and Taboos

1. Persons of the opposite sex may refrain from shaking hands with each other.

2. Men and women should avoid wearing shorts. Women should not wear short shirts or dresses.

3. The left hand is taboo. Never give or receive anything with it, especially food.

4. Remove shoes before entering a house or mosque.

5. Never expose the bottom of your foot to a Muslim.

6. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

7. At traditional dinners one may be expected to eat with one's fingers. Never let the fingers touch the mouth.

8. It is not appropriate to give gifts to hosts or hostesses. A thank you note sent a few days after a visit is fine for expressing appreciation.